Test for Appendicitis Approved by FDA

NOTE: On December 19, 2005, Palatin Technologies and
the FDA agreed on the immediate suspension of sales and marketing of NeutroSpec
[Technetium (99m Tc) fanolesomab] in the United States, due to reports of
serious and life-threatening cardiopulmonary events following the administration
of the drug. For more information, please read the
FDA
Press Release.

Since this type of white blood
cell is active in fighting infections, these cells tend to congregate at the
site of infection. (Think of them as firefighters.) When the monoclonal
antibodies arrive on the scene, they bind to the white blood cells. A gamma
camera can then be used to scan the body for any
"hot spots." The hot spots mean that the radioactive monoclonal
antibodies and hence, the white blood cells are concentrated at the site of
infection.